My top 5 tips for every estimate:
1. State the number of final images the bid cost is based on
2. Spell out details like, “No variations included”
3. Bid is based on the information provided; any changes may incur overages
4. 10-hour shoot day
5. No overtime is included
Creative call pauses mean = your opportunity to reflect back to them who you will be on set, how you think, and what you have to offer. Opportunities to show them how right you are for the job don’t often happen when you are up for a project, so take each one as that open-door moment to engage with your ideas!
Be thankful for what you do for a living. Your job is to stay in your creative zone.
How lucky are we?
Instead of getting lost or intimidated by the word – MARKETING, see it for what it is – to STICK IN THE CLIENT’S MINDS. If we break this down into simple steps, with the lead pinpoint being: be remembered, it can be easier than it seems. Increase the odds by using uncomplicated, basic human ideas of memory-provoking, catchy, enjoyable moments.
Have a genuine self-sales chat (elevator pitch) ready for those awkward portfolio showing or Zoom meeting moments when you need it at the drop of a hat. Be prepared with a few quick stories that won’t sound like sales, but rather, you sharing a story of how you handled a production mishap or an experience that represents more about how you work.
Industry OUTREACH trends come and go, so when you see an opening to meet in person – TAKE IT!
You are in the business of keeping it fresh for your clients, so keep your own company fresh.
Be careful when it feels satisfying to share our negative opinion about others in our PROFESSIONAL world because those words live on forever, even if they never get back to the person in question.
As CEO of your company, face the fact that wasting precious time doing everything yourself is not worth the cost. Delegate; be smart and utilize your time to your advantage.
When a client asks for more, we must stop proceeding with any changes to discuss them before they happen! Engage clients in a 2-way, respectful, open exploration, knowing this is a full hierarchy engagement.
